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Two Russian biathletes suspended for failed doping tests ahead of Sochi Games

A worker leaves after checking ice conditions at the Iceberg Skating Palace, where the figure skating and short track speed skiing will take place, at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. (AP / David J. Phillip)

The Associated Press
Published Wednesday, January 29, 2014 5:49PM EST

SALZBURG, Austria -- Two Russian biathletes have been provisionally suspended after tested positive for a doping substance in cases announced the week before the Sochi Olympics opens.

The International Biathlon Union says four positive tests were obtained in samples given by a total of three athletes from Russia and Lithuania. The governing body did not identify the athletes or substance involved.

The Russian Biathlon Union says its anti-doping committee was having an emergency meeting Wednesday to investigate the case.

Biathlon's world body says its anti-doping panel will judge the cases.

The IBU says in a statement it informed the IOC "due to the upcoming Olympic Winter Games."

In 2010, the IBU fined the Russian federation 50,000 euros (then $68,000) after five athletes were caught doping within one year.